What’s up guys. First time poster, long time lurker (26/M)

So basically down to the question at hand. I have a disfigurement that paralyzes the left side of my face as well as gives me noticable asymmetrical features. Not going to lie, this shit sucks. I’ve been bullied pretty much my whole life over it, right into adulthood. I went from a lively, fun loving kid, to a shy and timid teenager. I’ve gotten better with my shyness as I’ve gotten older and I consider myself decent at conversational skills. The biggest problem is my confidence. I have none of it. All these years of being bullied have really put a huge strain on my self esteem and self worth. As well as giving me social anxiety and agoraphobia (fear of people).

The one saving grace I have is that I actually had girls chase me in when I was younger. And these girls were not unattractive either, at least most of them weren’t. They were average and in some cases above average. I was always concerned they were playing some sick joke on me, but their interest was actually genuine. I found ways to fuck it up tho, either by never actually making a move due to my shyness, or just not having enough game to close the deal. One of the few exceptions was when I got into a LDR with one of the finest girls at my old HS. It didnt last long and when I went back to see her she ignored me in front of a crowd, guessing because she was embarrassed by me.

So is it possible for me to have at least moderate success in dating? And what would it take to get there. I’m 26 going on 27 in December. I’m tired of being alone. How do I make this change if its possible?